Motorist almost hit by train after jumping red light at level crossing (photos)

A reckless driver who risked her life when she raced through level crossing barriers as they closed has been banned for driving for a month.

Daniella Nelson drove her green Volkswagen Beetle onto the wrong side of the road to overtake a stationary car.

Paying no attention to the flashing red lights and a klaxon, CCTV cameras captured the horrifying moment she missed the lowering barriers by inches.

Nelson pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention after she ignored the warning signs at the crossing in Foxton, Cambridge, last September.

Magistrate Stephen Baxter told Caters News: "A horrific accident could have taken place because of this.

"The aggravating feature in this case is that you were actually overtaking on the other side when the red warning lights were on and the barriers were coming down."

Magistrates watched shocking CCTV stills of the incident and ordered her to pay a fine of £280 plus £58 in costs and a victim surcharge.

British Transport Police Sergeant Joe McClenaghan said: "Drivers who willingly flout the law, placing themselves and others in danger, should be aware that if caught doing so, we will do everything in our power to prosecute those responsible."

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